If your child complains of tooth sensitivity and pain, you’ll want to bring them to see a pediatric dentist right away. During this appointment, the dental professional will highlight some possible causes and offer some preventative tips and treatment options. To prepare for this meeting, consult the guide below. 

Causes

If your child still has their baby set, their pain might be attributed to the teeth becoming loose in preparation for the eruption of their adult set. During this time, the gums might feel tender and swollen as the teeth fall out and the new ones begin to push through the surface.

If they already have their adult set or they’re too young to lose their baby teeth, their pain might be due to cavities. This issue occurs when oral bacteria create acid that eats away at tooth enamel. From there, the bacteria penetrates deep into the tooth’s nerve, leading to pain and sensitivity. This issue can only be treated by a pediatric dentist.

Another common reason for pain is poor dental hygiene. Your child might be brushing too forcefully, leading to irritated, inflamed gums and deteriorated enamel. 

Treatment Options

If your child’s pain is due to erupting teeth, focus on alleviating the symptoms rather than curing the issue, as the teeth will eventually fall out on their own. You can use numbing creams or ice packs to ease tenderness, and avoid feeding your child tough foods that might put excess pressure the loose tooth. 

If the pain is due to a cavity, your pediatric dentist will devise a treatment plan depending on your child’s oral health. If they still have their baby teeth, the dentist might suggest removing the tooth since it will eventually be replaced by an adult tooth. If they already have their adult set, they’ll need to clear away the decay and fill the cavity.

If the sensitivity is due to improper hygiene, a trip to the dentist is also recommended. During this appointment, your child will learn how to properly brush and floss to avoid further irritation. 

Preventative Tips

Ensure your child understands how to properly care for their teeth. Teach them to brush and floss properly twice a day, and instruct them on the importance of a healthy diet. Don’t feed them too much sugar or carbohydrates, as these fuel cavity-causing bacteria.

Bring them in for biannual appointments to allow their dentist to catch and treat any developing issues before they worsen. 

If you’re seeking a pediatric dentist to treat your child’s tooth pain, look no further than Pedodontic Associates. This practice is proud to offer three convenient locations on Oahu and Maui, and their team is committed to creating a welcome, comforting environment for children of all ages. Call (808) 735-1733 for Honolulu, (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, or (808) 877-0066 for Kahului to schedule a consultation. Visit their website to learn more about their practice.